Flying an approach with tailwind is best done with A/THR ON with selected speed (without managed speed). This gives you added safety. For any winds from the front or even the side managed A/THR is quiet good or even A/THR OFF.
But certainly, learning to get to grips with the aircraft will make you want to fly manually, not only AP OFF, but also A/THR OFF.
Here it's A/THR OFF (by the pilot) = AP OFF, but not vv.
AP OFF does not imply that you have to disengage A/THR.
Every operator has its specialities. There is probably no better solution than doing what your operator wants from you and more importantly what Airbus says. Stick to the books.
EDIT: In an emergency use whatever you've got in any combination.
Last edited by square leg; 25th April 2004 at 18:55.